South African Michael summarizes the English community of parochie Maria as a provider of warmth, family and friendship. “I was welcomed at my Dutch job, but the English community extended that feeling by welcoming me for who I am: someone who has to start from zero when it comes to having social contacts close by.”
Back in Johannesburg, Michael was used to masses where 1500 people attended. That way, you don’t really get to know people personally. “I feel the Den Bosch community to be an extension of the parish. We worship together and have coffee and dinner together.” Michael blocks his personal planner on Saturdays so he can attend mass and be with the community he has gotten to know through this evenings that provide a true sense of community.
“Everyone goes out of their way to make you feel welcome, whether you come here as a refugee or an expat. Since I experienced that, I can do that for others who are new to the community. I prefer that over a big, almost anonymous community,” Michael says. “If you know everyone and care for and about each other, that’s when you are bothers and sisters in Christ.”
Feel free to join us for English mass, every Saturday at 17.15h. St. Catharine's church is located at Kruisbroedershof 4 5211 GX 's-Hertogenbosch.